Throwing a memorable party isn't just for those who opt for larger living spaces but is a luxury that anyone can enjoy. Whether you're an avid party planner who just leased a smaller apartment in Woodland Hills, California, or you're looking at apartments in Austin, Texas, that'll offer stunning balcony views for your intimate gatherings, this article is for you. Our experts weigh in with tips that prove that you don’t have to have a Gatsby-sized house to host a party that guests will never forget.
Elevate your hosting prowess by embracing the charm of intimate gatherings. So that your guests feel comfortable within a limited apartment space, consider curating a guest list that complements the square footage.
Daniyal Mehroze of Event Spaces New York mentions that "hosting a party in a small apartment is all about planning experiences that naturally fit cozy, intimate environments and lean into more personal interactions." He shares some of his favorite intimate apartment gatherings, which include game nights, dinner parties, movie nights, book clubs, and album-listening parties.
While hosting a party in an apartment can seem challenging, Crystal Dortch, the owner of The Main Event in Milwaukee, WI, assures us it is possible. She shares that one way to ensure your event's success is by "keeping attendance to a minimum and ensuring the space can accommodate your party size."
Transforming your small apartment into an inviting space begins with a strategic approach to the layout. Learn how to carve out a central area that serves as the heart of your gathering, fostering connection and maximizing the limited space available.
Co-owner of Los Angeles-based Bite Catering Couture, Vijay Goel, shares how this central area can be created by shifting furniture and offering convenient accessibility to bite-sized items. Additionally, he states that "providing a space where people can have a memorable experience is key."
One way to avoid clutter and create a functional serving space within the central area is by integrating organization among dinnerware. Mike Thayer with Bachelor on the Cheap recommends utilizing a picnic basket for storage that adds a "festive" feel and is also a great way to save space and organize plates, napkins, and other plasticware. He adds that this basket "works well as a condiment caddy or chip holder."
Unleash the potential of your small apartment as a welcoming haven for your guests. Consider details such as lighting, décor, and ambiance, discovering how subtle touches can transform even the most compact space into an inviting and memorable party destination.
Erin P., client concierge and event planner for SKYLIGHT in Denver, CO, suggests creating a "photo station with a streamer backdrop, balloons, and a neon sign for guests to take selfies at." Additionally, Madison suggests creating a memorable tabletop setting with borrowed or rented décor that complements the event's theme and aesthetic.
With It's Your Day, Micki Archer shares how "a warm and intimate setting can make even the smallest apartment feel like the ultimate party destination." Micki recommends integrating "soft lighting with a well-curated playlist and comfortable arrangements" for your guests to achieve a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Culinary success in a small apartment setting hinges on the delicate balance of flavor and practicality. From beverages to food, planning a simple yet sophisticated menu allows you to cater to your guests' tastes while navigating the constraints of your kitchen space.
When it comes to your menu, Jon at Good Heart Catering emphasizes the importance of choosing the right food and shares that the "key to a great party menu in a small apartment is simplicity and convenience." Jon suggests bite-sized appetizers and finger foods such as mini quiche, bruschetta, or gourmet sliders.
Marylee Santoro with Events By Marylee recommends offering beverages such as wine, champagne, beer, or premixed cocktails "to minimize space needed for bar items."
Expand your party footprint by venturing beyond the confines of your apartment. Allow guests to flow freely from your central area to your balcony or patio space to continue the conversation.
During warmer months, Chelsey Morin, wedding planner and coordinator for Double Blessing Events, suggests having an indoor/outdoor experience for guests by utilizing the balcony or patio. This can also be an excellent opportunity for guests to catch a breath of fresh air and create memories beneath the night sky.